BOISE - Gay rights supporters gathered on the steps of Boise's City Hall to speak out against the Defense of Marriage Act.

According to the act, states do not have to recognize a gay marriage performed in another state.

The group is calling upon President-elect Barack Obama to repeal the act. Obama opposes gay marriage, but previously stated he would repeal the act during his campaign.

"This is really a civil rights issue. This is about being treated like an equal citizen," said Jody May-Chang, the rally's organizer.

Bryan Fischer, with the Idaho Values Alliance, disagrees.

"If DOMA is repealed, it's going to put our freedom, our liberty as Idahoans to decide this crucial issue at risk," Fischer said.

In 2006, Idahoans passed a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage.

"They're living in the past. It's time that everybody in this country enjoyed equal rights," said Pat Hughes, a gay rights activist.